A Bantustan was a territory set aside for black inhabitants of South Africa during the apartheid era. The government created these areas to enforce racial segregation and limit the political rights of black South Africans. Bantustans were often located in less desirable regions and were intended to serve as independent states, although they were not recognized internationally. The establishment of Bantustans was part of the broader policy of apartheid, which aimed to maintain white supremacy in South Africa. Notable Bantustans included Transkei, Bophuthatswana, and Ciskei. The system was widely criticized for its economic and social implications, leading to significant resistance from the black population.